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Free new library apps bring more mobility to patron services

The Mentor Public Library is excited to launch two new mobile apps: CardStar and Boopsie®, a free new service to patrons. With the use of these smartphone apps, patrons not only will be able to have 24/7 access to the library’s catalog and services, but also have an on-hand digital Mentor Public Library card. Patrons can search in the smartphone app store under “Mentor Public Library” to find these free apps.

“Patrons are able to have real-time access to materials and have the ability to manage their accounts, including placing holds and renewals,” MPL Executive Director Lynn Hawkins said.

The Boopsie® app provides catalog search and account management, a GPS-powered library locator, Ask a Librarian, integration of social-network tools and other resources.

“This is a hard-working library app,” she said. “With one click, patrons can also access eBooks. Our eBook patrons can think of Boopsie as a very streamlined way to get to eBook content. There is a separate and simple channel for Overdrive in the app. That’s just one of the things they do.”

Patrons now able to download free CardStar app to mobile device

Patrons can use the library’s CardStar iPhone app as their library card. The CardStar app generates a barcode, which patrons can use in place of their card. The barcode on the iPhone screen can be scanned with special scanners at the Mentor Public Library. If patrons forget their card, they can use their CardStar app to check out library materials.

“We want to make Mentor Public Library as easy to use and as accessible as possible,” said MPL IT Manager Andy Gunsch.

With the CardStar app, Gunch said patrons will have no worries about being able to check out an item if they left their library card at home.

“The CardStar app will keep your most important card on you at all times,” he said. “You can have your library card on your smartphone, in your pocket, wherever you go. Our patrons will never have to worry about forgetting their library cards again.”

Apps anticipate patron needs

Hawkins said Mentor Public Library is the first to offer mobile-library apps in Lake County.

“This is a very fluid environment and we try to anticipate our community’s needs; to be nimble enough to implement the services and programs that they want, even before they know they want them,” she said. “These new mobile apps are in response to that goal.”